Magazine: Summer 2012 | Volume 18, No. 4

In today's world of mobile apps and social media, an entrepreneurial sprit is no longer just for the adventurous. It's safe to assume that anyone with basic programming skills has considered jumping into the deep end to find success in the startup world. And it's not so surprising, considering the everyday tools we use began as startups: Google, Facebook, Twitter, Groupon, Instagram. From dedicated conferences like TechCrunch Disrupt to venture capitalist bloggers, startups are big business. We've compiled interviews and articles from those with direct experience working for, funding, and launching a startup. We hope this issue will fill in the gaps you may have about starting your own business. Perhaps upon turning that last page you realize a startup is not for you, or you may be reinvigorated to go out there and make your mark. In light of Facebook's recent IPO struggles, it's apparent that you will need more than a big idea. If you're willing to take the risk, you may be part of something that fundamentally changes how we live.

Jessica Mah started her first company, internshipIN.com, at the age of 13, shortly after she began her studies in computer science at the University of California, Berkeley. Currently Product Architect and CEO of inDinero.com, which she co-founded during her undergraduate studies, she discusses the value of her computer science education and how it affected her entrepreneurial path.